Adverse and Positive Experiences in Childhood and Psychopathy in a Sample of Women in Prison

• In Event: European Developmental and Life-course Criminology Working Group, Panel 1: Criminal careers

Abstract

The literature suggests that individuals with psychopathic traits tend to have a higher prevalence of adverse experiences in childhood. However, studies primarily focus on male samples, lacking an in-depth exploration of the relationship between psychopathy and positive childhood experiences. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the connection between adverse and positive childhood experiences and psychopathy in a female prison sample.
The sample comprises 111 incarcerated women, ranging in age from 23 to 72 years. They were evaluated using the Adverse Experiences Scales (ACE’s) and Benevolent Experiences in Childhood (EEBI), along with the Psychopathy Self-Report Scale (SRP-SF). The results indicate that women in prison report a high number of adverse childhood experiences (76.1%), with notable instances of physical neglect (82.6%) and substance abuse by a family member (48.6%). Additionally, a substantial prevalence of positive experiences was observed (42.2% reported 10 positive experiences).
Statistically significant positive correlations were identified between the total number of adverse childhood experiences and total psychopathy, as well as between specific adverse experiences (physical neglect, sexual, physical, and emotional abuse in childhood) and the lifestyle facet of psychopathy. Significant differences in the lifestyle facet of psychopathy were noted between women who reported and those who did not report emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as exposure to domestic violence. Furthermore, distinctions were observed between the group without and with instances of physical abuse in the interpersonal and antisocial facets of psychopathy. Statistically significant negative correlations were found between positive childhood experiences and the total number of negative childhood experiences, emotional and sexual abuse, emotional and physical neglect, parental divorce, and exposure to domestic violence.
While these findings are preliminary and exploratory, they hold significance for research in this area and for interventional practices, underscoring the importance of early interventions in preventing adversity.

Authors

• Marina Leonor Pinheiro, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal

• Rui Abrunhosa Gonçalves, Universidade do Minho

• Olga Cunha, Lusófona University of Porto, Portugal